Mixing Fitness With Faith

9 December 2010 No Comments

Gospel aerobics lets you praise as you raise your heart rate

BY: Roxanne Francois

LET OUT A joyful sigh for a new trend in fitness that will challenge your body, mind and soul. It’s called gospel aerobics and it may be stomping and clapping its way into a fitness studio near you.

“A lot of people believe that singing is the only creative way to praise,” says Charmaine Hinds, founder and director of Worship in Motion. “Worship in Motion is more than just a ministry. It’s a way to help people use their whole being to worship,” she says. “Our team provides various styles of dance and exercise classes, incorporating movements from African folk to salsa.”

While some of today’s trendy workouts might include stripteases on poles or dancing at clubs, gospel aerobics takes a different approach.

“We dress to sweat while still leaving something to the imagination. Many Christians stay away from various health clubs and aerobics classes because of the messages in the music,” Hinds says. “The choice of music, dress or movements may have sexual connotations that are not appropriate for Christians who wish to exercise in a spiritual setting.”

“So when the workout is choreographed to music with no crude or offensive lyrics, it gives believers the opportunity to exercise in a group setting without compromising their beliefs.”

But don’t believe for one second that it means her classes are easy. With upbeat rhythms and lively beats, the high intensity allows people to “praise as they raise” their heart rates and shed away their daily stress.

“People come into class with prayer requests the moment they walk through the door,” says Hinds. “They know in their hearts if there is something heavy, they can bring it in, shake it off and leave it right here. The group gains a foundation of spirituality as our instructors add scripture to each class.”

“Some people are healthy spiritually, but not physically,” says Torkwase Fraser, founder of Health Quest Fitness. The former professional sprinter and 2007 Miss Diverse Canada says she’s determined to educate churchgoers and the public at large about the benefits of health and wellness.

“My goal is to help people find that balance,” says Fraser. “I work to inspire and educate pastors and church staff about healthy living. When they are armed with knowledge they become more comfortable introducing health initiatives to the congregation.”

Both Hinds and Fraser say there are thankful that they have been able to create outlets which are supported by their Christian and spiritual beliefs, while benefiting others physically.

“I didn’t excel until my spirituality was in order,’” says Fraser. “I just want to pass along the experience and knowledge that helped me succeed to others.”